Hilda Tloubatla, the last surviving original member of the Mahotella Queens, isnt slowing down instead, the 83-year-old is passing on the mbaqanga torch and holding it high.
With the same grace and grit that have defined the group since its inception in 1964, Tloubatla remains fiercely committed to preserving the legacy of mbaqanga music, ensuring that its rhythm, message and spirit continue to resonate across generations.
The living legend is in Tokyo, Japan, with two fresh voices beside her, Amanda Nkosi and Nonku Maseko, where the Mahotella Queens headlined the World Music and Dance Festival in Hokkaido.
Under Tloubatlas guiding wings, she, Nkosi and Maseko captivated 30,000 people with the iconic groups signature sound, harmonies and timeless hits.
In an interview with SMag while in Tokyo, Tloubatla reflected on the monumental moment their first time in Japan since 2005.